Before we begin, let us define what “removing spray paint” means. We define removing as removing without causing permanent damage or discoloration of the underlying material.

This can be either through the removal of the top layer (i.e., paint) or through the removal of the color in an underlying material. This article will cover both methods, in hopes that you would use it as your guide to remove whatever graffiti tag is smeared on your wall.

Carefully look at the surface to be cleaned before attempting any method. If it is discoloring or otherwise damaging the surface, do not use that method. Well, we highly recommend ppaint because they can help you the best way when it comes to painting issues.

EASY WAYS TO REMOVE SPRAY PAINT:

1) Acetone 

This is a common ingredient in nail polish remover. It works well, but be aware of possible damage to the underlying surface. If you need to remove a layer of paint or simply make a clean break from a graffiti tag, this is a good method.

2) Alcohol

 This will work on most surfaces, but it can change the color of some materials (i.e., paint or plastics). It may not be the best option for all surfaces.

3) Dishwashing liquid

 Just as it sounds, dishwashing liquid is a very common household item that will have good results in removing spray paint from surfaces. Because of the nature of the product, you may want to test it first on your surface before completely applying it.

4) Glass cleaner

This won’t work as well as acetone or alcohol, but if those are not available it can work.

5) Hair spray

Yes, the same hair spray that you used on prom night will also help in removing paint from surfaces. Just make sure it is a product made for this purpose and not just plain old hairspray. Test first to make sure it doesn’t damage your surface or remove too much of the color underneath.

6) Lighter fluid

(Zippo lighter fluid, for example)- Thanks to my wife, who suggested this method to me when I was in a pinch. This will work on almost all materials and is good for removing paint from surfaces where acetone, alcohol or dishwashing liquid cannot be applied easily.

7) Nail polish remover

This will work on most surfaces, but test first to make sure it doesn’t damage your surface or remove too much of the color underneath.

8) Paint thinner

Just as it sounds, this chemical can be used to thin paints and clean oil based paint brushes. It works well for removing spray paint from most surfaces, but test first to make sure it doesn’t damage your surface or remove too much of the color underneath.

9) WD-40

A common lubricating oil that is effective for removing spray paint from most surfaces. Just be aware of possible discoloration of the underlying material. Test first to make sure it doesn’t damage your surface or remove too much of the color underneath.

10) White vinegar

This won’t work on paint, but it can be used on some plastics and metal surfaces to get rid of the spray paint stink. Just make sure to test first for discoloration of your surface before you go all out with this method.

11) WD-40 and dishwashing liquid

This method is a combination of the previous 2 methods. It works for most materials, so test first to make sure it won’t damage your surface or remove too much of the color underneath.

12) Use fresh paint instead

I know this sounds stupid but when all else fails, why not? Just remember that if you do, you will be painting over the graffiti.

To remove spray paint from most surfaces with a minimum of fuss and little chance of damage or discoloration to your underlying material, try using WD-40. Because it is an oil-based product with a solvent base, it will work well on most surfaces without causing too much damage to those surfaces.

If you are more concerned with the color of your underlying surface than the spray paint, try alcohol or acetone first. If those two products do not remove enough of the paint, move on to window cleaner, hair spray or nail polish remover. The more resistant paints can be removed using any oil-based product combined with dishwashing liquid, lighter fluid or WD-40.

In the end, if you have tried all of these products and nothing is working, then your only choice is to use fresh paint. Remember that this will cover what was underneath the graffiti, but it’s a lot better than leaving spray paint on your property.